Top Places to Peep Utah's Fall Foliage — and What to Wear

You know what time it is? Time for everything fall. 

We’ve been waiting months for it: pumpkin spice and everything nice. We’re talking apple cider, cozy sweaters, back-to-school, and colorful, changing leaves. And Utah’s got some of the best fall foliage nature has to offer.

Every September Utah’s landscape explodes into an abundant and rich kaleidoscope of vibrant fall foliage, boasting brilliant hues and breathtaking colors. And with a multitude of peak viewing times, the colors last for weeks. (Pro tip: the higher the altitude, the sooner fall colors will peak!)

Whether you’re hiking, biking, or taking a scenic drive for leaf peeping, here’s where to find those scenic vistas — and what to wear while viewing it.

Beloved to Salt Lake County Utahns, Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons are the place to be, anytime of year. Home to famous ski resorts and breathtaking alpine scenery, these canyons offer a myriad of must-do outdoor adventures, world-class hiking, and one-of-a-kind views. There’s no better time than the fall to get acquainted with these classic Utah views. 

 

Located by Mount Olympus in the Wasatch Mountains, this popular, year-round recreation spot is outfitted with lush foliage and forest. A short drive from Salt Lake City and the Sugarhouse neighborhood, take an autumn drive, then get takeout from one of our favorite SLC eats.

 

This backcountry drive, connecting Park City to Brighton, is full of breathtaking mountain scenery — perfect for peeping fall foliage. Stop by Park City for dinner after catching golden hour (especially golden this time of year) up gorgeous Guardsman’s Pass.

 

 Brimming with vegetation and picturesque waterfalls, this scenic destination boasts lots of activities perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Take Provo Canyon to the Alpine Loop up past Sundance and down through American Fork Canyon for more incredible views of Mount Timp & brilliant quaking aspen trees.

 

 On the southern end of Utah Valley is the beautiful Nebo Loop drive. Mount Nebo is the highest point in the Wasatch Range — you’ll catch a sweeping scene showcasing views of Nephi, Utah Lake, and Utah Valley. Diverse naturescapes on this winding drive boasts autumn vibrance.